For some young women, breast cancer may bring on menopause or menopause-like symptoms earlier than expected due to treatments like chemotherapy, ovarian suppression and/or hormonal therapies. Many young women have been down this road and have found ways to cope with early menopause— you can do it, too.
Symptoms of early menopause may include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of menopause, talk to your oncologist or gynecologist about medicines, supplements or other methods to help you control your symptoms. Make sure you speak to your healthcare team about possible effects on heart and bone health.
Take advantage of our other resources to help you cope with early menopause and support your physical and mental well-being:
One particularly frustrating symptom of early menopause is the onset of hot flashes. Here are some tips to help you manage hot flashes:
If your hot flashes are severe or disrupting your daily living, make your doctor aware. It is possible that some prescribed medication can also relieve your discomfort.